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Wild Bleu offers downtown food, fun

Brews on tap, lawn games for families and individuals, or relax and work on a craft.

Wild Bleu, a boutique which also offers food, tap brews, and craft classes, will hold its grand opening Aug. 5, according to owners Rebecca Keegan and Jennifer Schaffner.

Keegan previously had the Grit and Grace business at the same location, at 225 S. Fifth St., but decided to go in a different direction with new partner Schaffner.

The building has been extensively remodeled,

Outside, a large covered patio was put in, lawn area excavated, and retaining wall built by Simmons Construction. Inside, there are new walls, new flooring, a remodeled kitchen, and ranch-style decor, all done by the owners.

"Nick Snead and the city of Madras, and the Madras Redevelopment Commission have all been amazing in helping us," Schaffner said of the city grant they got to improve the business' façade.

Schaffner's background includes developing websites, and running a wholesale jewelry distribution business for some 100 East Coast and Midwest Western stores. In addition, she also works with the cattle crew at the R2 Ranch.

Both women teach crafting classes, which are available anytime. "We can give people the supplies and they can sit and make a gift, while enjoying a drink, or we can customize craft parties for groups," Schaffner said, noting they recently did a children's birthday party.

"Kids can make a friendship bracelet, or tie-dye socks, or women can make a home décor sign for their house," she said of some of the daily options.

At the boutique entrance, there will be grab-and-go fresh fruits and vegetables, or people can come inside for a cool drink or ice cream cone. "We're trying to have all-Oregon items, including produce and Eberhard's ice cream. The shop will carry jewelry, some clothing and gift items.

While Wild Bleu will sell tap beer, cider and pop, they have arranged with neighbor Rio Mexican Cuisine to offer that restaurant's menu, and Schaffner and Keegan will take turns waiting the tables in their area.

Two other vendors will also serve food, including Dig-A-Dee's food cart, with wraps, pulled pork and corndogs; and a gazebo table serving locally raised steak from Symons Cattle Ranch, along with beans and bread.

The lawn area will have a fire pit in the evenings, and lawn games for families and people to play, or they can visit the game cupboard and select a board game.

"We'd like to have an open mic night, and live music once a month," Keegan said.

Wild Bleu will be open from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., Wednesday through Sunday (to start). The business phone numbers are 541-350-4928, for Schaffner, or 541-948-2367, for Keegan. Visit their website at wildbleumadras.com.